MS Dhoni vs Sanju Samson: IPL stats comparison after 172 innings

Sanju Samson and MS Dhoni will play for CSK in IPL 2026 [Source: AFP]

The Indian Premier League has seen many big trades over the years, but the recent Sanju Samson-Ravindra Jadeja swap has stood out as one of the most high-profile ones. Samson will now be seen in the yellow jersey of Chennai Super Kings after the trade of two senior all-rounders. 

As part of the trade, Ravindra Jadeja moved to Rajasthan with his salary reduced from ₹18 crore to ₹14 crore, while Sam Curran, valued at ₹2.4 crore, also joined Rajasthan. Samson kept his existing salary of ₹18 crore.

Many expected that since Samson arrived in CSK as a big-ticket signing, he might take over the captaincy. However, the franchise confirmed Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue as captain for IPL 2026. One question still remains unanswered, who will keep wickets for CSK? Both MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson are star wicketkeepers, and both have performed brilliantly in the IPL. 

So it makes sense to compare the two based on equal footing.

MS Dhoni vs Sanju Samson: Overall IPL stats

Because Dhoni has played far more seasons, a fair comparison can only be made by looking at their first 172 innings each.

Notably, Dhoni has been part of the IPL right from the very first season in 2008. In contrast, Sanju Samson started his IPL journey in 2013. Naturally, Dhoni has had more seasons, more innings, and more time to build a legacy.

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But to understand how they performed at the same stage of their careers, we compare their records after 172 innings each.

MS Dhoni vs Sanju Samson: IPL stats comparison After 172 innings

Inference: At first glance, Samson has scored more runs (4704 compared to Dhoni’s 4461) in 172 innings. His strike rate is also slightly higher. This shows the Kerala batter plays more aggressively and gets runs faster.

However, Dhoni’s batting average is significantly better, 41.49 compared to Samson’s 30.94. A higher average means Dhoni stays longer at the crease and finishes games more consistently.

Another important factor is batting position:

• Sanju Samson usually bats in the top order, where plenty of balls are available to score.
• MS Dhoni usually bats in the middle or lower middle order, often walking in when pressure is high and overs are limited.

Considering these conditions, the fact that Dhoni maintains a higher average while scoring at nearly the same strike rate shows his unmatched ability as a finisher.

Conclusion: 

Both MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson are outstanding IPL performers, but they excel in different roles. Samson is a top-order aggressor who scores freely and builds an innings, while Dhoni is a middle-order finisher who absorbs pressure and guides his team to victory.

It is important to note that there is no absolute “winner” here, both have succeeded in their own styles. This comparison only shows how valuable both players are to their teams and the IPL as a whole.

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